Jamaica’s boxing scene makes a powerful comeback this Saturday with the final Wray & Nephew Fight Night of the year, marking the first major sporting event since Hurricane Melissa devastated the island. The Jamaica Boxing Association (JBA) unveiled an explosive 10-bout card during a festive media briefing at Tracks & Records on Thursday, featuring three professional contests and seven amateur matches at Constant Spring Sports Complex.
The event carries significance beyond sporting competition, serving as a fundraising platform for boxers affected by the hurricane’s destruction. JBA President Stephen Jones expressed initial doubts about hosting another event post-Melissa but acknowledged the overwhelming community demand for both entertainment and hurricane relief efforts.
Professional fighter Jermaine Bowen set the tone with fiery predictions for his light heavyweight clash against Dominican Republic’s Julio “Dom Rep Bomber” Guerrero. “Straight knockout fi him,” Bowen declared. “Two place him can end up, flat pan him back or flat pan him face. Come out come see pure demolition at this fight.”
The card also showcases unbeaten prospect Juzier “IronMan” Heron against Dominican Republic’s Jonaury Moreta in a super welterweight contest, while debutant Daniel Hylton faces Demar Haslam in another light heavyweight bout.
Western Jamaica coach Jasmine Graham revealed the hurricane’s traumatic impact on boxers, noting many lost homes, clothing, and food security. “The gym is a safe haven for them,” Graham explained, emphasizing the psychological toll and her efforts to foster resilience. Two amateur boxers from her Montego Bay gym will compete on Saturday’s card, symbolizing the sport’s role in community recovery.